Your body can say a lot about you and your lifestyle even if you don’t realize it. This month our Massage Therapist, Kristen Heisey shares what a massage therapist knows about you from spending an hour with you.
Soccer player or runner
When a client complains of shin splints, it tells me he/she has been doing some sort of repetitive activity which causes stress on the shin bone. I generally see this in runners or soccer players. It also indicates there may be a weakness in core muscles or improper footwear.
Too much texting or computer work
Often neck pain is associated with the most common daily tasks, even walking. Clients who tend to look down naturally while they walk, while texting or sitting at a computer for long periods experience pain because the neck is not balanced. Quick Tip: take a moment to lean your head backwards to counter balance looking down. Doing this throughout the day can ease tension and pain.
Dancer or hockey player
When a client lays supine (on their back) and their feet (in a relaxed position) point overly outwards this is an indication of “turn out” which indicates to a massage therapist that the piraformis muscle is short. The clients generally needs extra attention to their hips. We usually see this in dancers. It also tells me the client may have medial knee strain.
Cold Feet
This could be a sign of poor circulation or dehydration. Water is often overlooked as a way to take care of our bodies, staying hydrated is essential!
Bad Posture
Posture can often be the cause of back pain. Most people don’t realize that the pain is actually coming from the pectoral muscle. Being mindful of your posture, shoulders and chest straight, keeps your back straight. Pain is often caused by the chest and shoulders leaning inward, pulling on the back muscles.
Too many energy drinks
Everything in moderation. A tight neck and tightening of the jaw are two symptoms it’s time to slow down, have some water! Often clients aren’t even aware that they are clenching their jaw at all.
Long Drive or Airplane ride
Being in a seated position for extended periods can lead to lower back pain. When you are in the sitting position, the hip flexor muscles are in a constant state of contraction, shortening and exert minimal energy, causing the pain. Quick Tip: place your ankle on top of the opposite knee, in some cases this alone can relieve discomfort. Take it to the next level by leaning forward, placing your forearms on top of the crossed leg. Switch sides and repeat.
Are you surprised by some of the things your massage therapist can tell about you from just looking at you? Massage is a great way to heal the body and help relieve pain caused by many everyday stressors. Book your next massage here and see what your massage therapist will know about you after your treatment.